Safety and security

Political Situation

Citizens should exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to Eswatini. In particular citizens should avoid protests, demonstrations or marches. Protests and demonstrations that broke out in 2021 resulted in significant damage and loss of life, and civil unrest continues, including rising crime, arson attacks, and violent incidents. The security situation can change suddenly, and travellers should remain vigilant for any signs of disturbances.

Irish citizens should monitor local and social media for updates and follow the advice of local authorities.

We further advise all Irish citizens in Eswatini to stay in touch with other EU citizens where possible and also to get in touch with the EU Delegation to ensure that you are updated on the current situation.

https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/eswatini_en

Phone number: Telephone: +268 2404 2018 / 4769 /2908 / 0191.

Email: delegation-swaziland@eeas.europa.eu.

Irish citizens travelling or living in Eswatini are encouraged to register their contact details here. This will allow the Irish Embassy in Mozambique to include you in contingency planning in the event of a crisis or emergency situation.

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Health

Get travel and medical insurance

Before travelling, the Department strongly recommends that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation/evacuation, repatriation of remains and legal costs. You should check any exclusions and, in particular, that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.

Vaccinations

Check what vaccinations you may need for your trip at least eight weeks before you travel. We can’t advise you on vaccinations, but you can get information about vaccinations from your local GP or an International Health and Travel Centre.

Evidence of vaccination (in the form of a certificate) can be a requirement for entry to some countries.

Medication

Make sure you bring enough medication for your entire trip and for any unexpected delays. You may wish to also bring copies of your prescription in case you lose your medication.

Additional information

Entry requirements

Irish passport holders do not need a visa to enter Eswatini.

Passports must be valid for at least three months from the date of entry into Eswatini and have two or more blank pages.

It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you when travelling to Eswatini and you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times during your stay.

If your passport is lost or stolen while you’re abroad you should contact the Irish Embassy in Maputo. We’ll do our best to help you as quickly as possible but this can take some time. Your location and circumstances may limit the help we can give you.

What we can do:

• Issue an emergency travel document that will get you home;

• If required, provide advice on applying for new passport.

You will need a police report if you want to make a claim on your travel insurance. We will not provide you with a travel document without a police report.